OpenAI has introduced “dots”, a new category of always-on AI agents in ChatGPT designed to continue working towards a user’s goals without requiring them to direct every step, marking an expansion of the company’s agentic AI capabilities into persistent, ongoing work.
Launched on September 29, dots are powered by GPT-6 Astra and operate using their own cloud computer and browser. Users can give a dot a goal, connect relevant applications and establish rules governing what it can do independently and which actions require approval.
The agents can connect with more than 4,000 applications through OpenAI’s plugin ecosystem. Users can interact with their dot through ChatGPT, Slack and Microsoft Teams, while text messaging support is planned. OpenAI said dots can carry context across these channels and learn from feedback over time.
Unlike a conventional chatbot session, a dot can continue working across multiple projects and respond to changing information. OpenAI outlined examples including monitoring customer feedback and preparing software fixes, updating launch materials when product requirements change, revising research analysis as new data arrives and turning interview transcripts into clips, show notes and social media drafts.
The company is also positioning dots for proactive work. When users are not actively interacting with them, dots can conduct what OpenAI calls “proactive research” through connected applications. During this process, the tools are restricted to read-only access, preventing the agent from sending messages, changing application content or controlling the user’s browser or computer.
Users can determine which applications a dot can access and set Custom Rules to allow, block or require approval for specific actions. OpenAI said dots also use an automated review system to assess actions that could affect accounts or share information. Certain sensitive tasks, such as changing a password, remain with the user.
The company is also previewing “specialist dots” for organisations. These agents are designed for defined enterprise responsibilities and can be provisioned with their own identity, credentials and access to company systems. OpenAI said it is working with Microsoft to integrate specialist dots with Microsoft Agent 365 governance and security controls.
Dots are initially rolling out to Pro and Business Premium users in eligible markets, while Enterprise users, including Education and Healthcare customers, can access the beta when enabled by workspace administrators.
The first dot is included with eligible Pro and Business Premium plans at no additional cost. OpenAI said it plans to expand access and eventually allow users to add multiple dots, signalling a move towards AI systems that operate continuously alongside people rather than responding only when prompted.
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